The RAC has issued advice and warnings ahead of the busy May Day bank holiday when roads are expected to be filled with people hoping to get their fill of the sunshine here in the south west.

A staggering 8.5million leisure trips will be completed by drivers across the three-day weekend especially on roads like the M5, A30 and A38 , according to research by the RAC.

But with glorious sunshine and temperatures of up to 20 degrees Celsius forecast for Devon and Cornwall, the RAC believes Friday (May 4) afternoon between 4pm and 7pm will be the busiest time to travel - when more than 2.8million motorists are expected to hit the roads.

Saturday looks set to be the next busiest day, with around 2.5million leisure trips scheduled, followed by bank holiday Monday itself with 1.9million.

The traffic on the M5

The researchers have warned, however, that these estimates could increase by millions more depending on what the weather has in store.

Read More

According to the latest Met Office forecast for Devon and Cornwall, it looks like the city and the wider region can expect plenty of sunshine on Sunday and Monday, when temperatures could surpass 20C at times.

Consequently, the RAC has warned coastal regions and the main roads that lead to them - like the M5 motorway - are likely to suffer from large increases in traffic.

RAC traffic spokesman Rod Dennis said: “While wall-to-wall sunshine might not be on the cards for everyone this bank holiday weekend, many will still be keen to make the most of the early May warmth by escaping in the car to spend time with family or friends – especially after the recent chilly spell that even lead to some overnight frosts at the start of this week.

Traffic backed up in the hot sunshine following the crash on the A30 near Zelah (Image: Sally Adams)

“While motorists have told us about their firm travel plans as part of our research, if we see things really warm up by the weekend it’s likely to mean millions more cars on the road, which is bound to cause queues on popular routes.

“We urge all drivers to give their cars a quick once over before they set off, especially if they are planning on driving any great distance.

Read More

“Spending just a few moments checking things like the oil and coolant levels, together with tyre pressure and condition, could save hours stuck at the side of the road while everyone else enjoys the long weekend.

The busiest times on the roads this bank holiday

Planned leisure journeys by car Expected busiest times on the road

Friday May 4th 2.86 million 4pm to 7pm

Saturday May 5th 2.54 million 10am to 4pm

Sunday May 6th 1.27 million 10am to 4pm

Monday May 7th 1.91 million 12pm to 4pm

Planning a trip between 1st and 9th May, but no date set yet 4.45 million